Olion //\\ Traces Launches Four Artist Residencies and Commissions in Ynys Môn

Olion //\\ Traces is a programme that brings together artists and creative practitioners with several partner organisations: GeoMôn UNESCO Global Geopark, Heneb: The Trust for Welsh Archaeology, Red Squirrels Trust Wales, and North Wales Rivers Trust. The initiative is designed to foster the development of new work through research, experimentation, and exchange between artists and these organisations.

Each of the four residencies offered by Olion //\\ Traces provides participants with time, resources, and access to specialist knowledge. This structure is intended to open up different ways for artists to engage with local landscapes, histories, and environments. The residencies are structured to value the process of enquiry as much as the final artistic outcomes.

The programme is open to artists, makers, and creative practitioners who are based in Wales. Applications are also welcomed from collaborative groups. The opportunity is available to those working across different disciplines and at various stages of their careers, ensuring a broad and inclusive approach.

Each residency opportunity includes a £1,500 artist fee, a £300 materials budget, and travel support of up to £200. In addition to financial support, practical and curatorial support is provided to assist artists in the development and realisation of their projects during the residency period.

The outcomes of the residencies will be presented as part of the Aberlleiniog Sculpture Trail. This event is scheduled to take place on 20–21 March 2027, providing a public platform for the commissioned works developed through the programme. The presentation will showcase the results of the artists’ research and engagement with the local context.

Olion //\\ Traces is initiated and produced by Plas Bodfa Projects CIC, with support from the Arts Council of Wales. The collaboration with multiple partner organisations aims to create opportunities for creative practitioners to work closely with experts in environmental and archaeological fields.

Applications for the residencies must be submitted by 11 November 2026. The programme encourages applicants to propose projects that make use of the resources and expertise offered by the partner organisations, with a focus on research, experimentation, and exchange.